Chronic Kidney Disease, or CKD
Chronic Kidney Disease, or CKD, is the gradual, yet progressive decline in kidney function over time. Just as the body ages and loses function, so do the kidneys. Most of the time there is no significant damage as it is a slow process. Those with CKD however, experience an accelerated decline in the function of their kidneys and may need to be under the care of a nephrologist, or kidney doctor. Patients who have conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or other diseases that attack the internal structure of the kidneys are at greater risk for developing CKD. When CKD conditions worsen to an advanced state, waste products within the body accumulate and can trigger a multitude of other symptoms. Such symptoms can include: excessive weight gain or weight loss, a decrease in the output of urine, fatigue, body swelling, a lack of appetite, paleness, an increased tendency to bruise or bleed, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. Your nephrologist’s goal is to help preserve as much of the kidney function as possible and educate you on renal replacement therapy options, such as dialysis or kidney transplant, should symptoms worsen.
If you or your patient has any of the below conditions or symptoms, please consider calling our office:
Elevated Creatinine (Creatinine > 1.5 mg/dL or GFR < 45 ml/min)
Hypertensive Urgency
Proteinuria or Hematuria
Severe edema or volume overload
Recurrent kidney stones